AstroStart 803U User manual

July 2004 193-127-309-10
Printed in Canada
All rights reserved © Astroflex 2004
NOS DE BREVETS
CAN 1.130.426
É.-U. 4.345.554 - 5.614.883
- 5.617.819 - 5.673.017
ET AUTRES BREVETS EN INSTANCE
Fabriqué au Canada par:
USER MANUAL
Model 803U
For all gas- and diesel-
powered vehicles
(FRANÇAIS AU VERSO)
CONSULT SAFETY PRECAUTION SECTION
BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT.
SOME FEATURES MAY REQUIRE
ADDITIONAL MATERIAL (NOT INCLUDED).
®
REMOTE CONTROL
ENGINE STARTER

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
This device complies with the requirements of Industry Canada (IC) - Management of Radiofrequencies, as specified in document CNR-210.
Its use is authorized only on a no-interference, no-protection basis; in other words, this device must not be used if it is determined that it
causes harmful interference to services authorized by IC. In addition, the user of this device must accept any radio interference that may be
received, even if this interference could affect the operation of the device.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference and
(2) this device must accept interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television, which can be determined by turning the equipment OFF and ON, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the distance between the equipment and receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technician for help.
Warning:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by <manufacturer> could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.
Inc.
1164, Route 220
St-Élie d’Orford (Québec) Canada
J0B 2S0
ELECTRONIC CORP.
516A Elm Street
Manchester, NH 03101
USA
www.astroflex.com

1
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING AN ASTROSTART
REMOTE CAR STARTER!
Like you, Astroflex is concerned with the environment.
This is why we are suggesting that you use the two-minute runtime
when you remote-start your vehicle to warm up engine fluids. Ask your dealer.
We take this opportunity to remind you to properly defrost your windows
and remove all the snow on your vehicle before driving on public roads.
Rolling igloos are extremely dangerous!
We wish you an excellent journey with your remote engine starter!
Table of contents
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS____________________________________________________________________________ 2
SAFETY SEQUENCE FOR MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3
PREPARING SYSTEM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3
THE REMOTE CONTROL ___________________________________________________________________________ 4
TABLE OF COMMANDS ____________________________________________________________________________ 4
START COMMANDS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5
LOCK/UNLOCK COMMANDS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7
ANTITHEFT (CIRCUIT DISABLER)------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
CODE LEARNING OF ADDITIONAL TRANSMITTER(S) ___________________________________________________ 9
SAFETY CHECKS _________________________________________________________________________________ 9
HOOD SWITCH --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9
GEARSHIFT CHECK APPLICABLE TO AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION VEHICLES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9
GEARSHIFT CHECK APPLICABLE TO MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
REPLACING OR BOOSTING VEHICLE BATTERY ______________________________________________________ 10

2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Before using this product, carefully read the following safety precautions.
GENERAL RULES
• Never perform a remote start when a person or animal is inside the vehicle.
• Do not allow any person or animal to remain inside the vehicle when the engine is running under remote starter
control (continuous mode).
• Immediately report any malfunction to the AstroStart dealer that performed the installation.
• Under no circumstance can this product or its use be modified.
• Always turn off the main switch when vehicle is parked in an enclosed, unventilated area or is in for servicing.
• Always turn off the main switch when not using your remote starter for extended periods of time.
• Keep remote controls away from children.
• Have your engine tuned regularly to ensure optimum performance of your remote starter.
• Make sure that the windshield wipers and the headlights are turned off before leaving vehicle.
• Regularly check safety features that stop engine (see SAFETY CHECKS on page 9.)
• Make sure you comply with all local regulations, which may prohibit leaving your engine running when vehicle is
unattended in a public place.
• To ensure continued safe operation of your remote starter, ask your AstroStart dealer to periodically check
and/or tune the remote starting system.
• Always advise service personnel that your vehicle is equipped with a remote starter.
• We strongly recommend that you have your remote starter checked annually. Contact a dealer in your area.
• All users of the vehicle should be aware of the safety precautions and operation procedures.
• Make sure that the warning sticker is present on the driver's window.
SPECIFIC RULES FOR MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES
• Make sure that the parking brake is operational, i.e. it can prevent the vehicle from moving.
• If the shift lever is accessible without having to open a door of the vehicle (for example, by entering via the
liftgate or rear hatch) or in the case of a convertible vehicle, it is strongly recommended to have a motion
detector (microwave) installed with the system. This device prevents the engine from starting should any activity
be detected near the gearshift.

3
SAFETY SEQUENCE FOR MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES
Your remote starter was designed to force you to perform a series of actions that will ensure that the gearshift lever is in
neutral position when you exit the vehicle.
This series of actions is called a "Safety sequence" and is aimed at preventing any remote start in situations where remote
starting the engine would not be safe.
Should the hatchback or any door be opened at any time, the intrusion will be detected and the safety sequence will be
cancelled by the system, thus preventing a remote start. In such cases, the sequence must be repeated to allow for an
eventual remote start.
The system offers two execution modes for the sequence. These options must be set at time of installation. The first mode is
initiated by the parking brake and the other by the remote control.
The safety sequence must be performed as follows.
SEQUENCE ACTIVATED BY THE PARKING BRAKE .
1. While engine is running (key in ignition switch), apply the brakes and hold the pedal down.
2. Move gearshift lever to neutral.
3. Apply the parking brake Once Twice
Note: The system can be set - at time of installation - to require that the parking brake be applied once or twice.
If set for two actuations, pause one second between the two.
4. Remove key from ignition (the system keeps the engine running).
5. Exit the vehicle.
6. Within 60 seconds, close all doors.
7. The system will stop the engine and blink the parking brakes once to confirm the sequence is valid (vehicle is
ready for a remote start command).
SEQUENCE ACTIVATED BY THE REMOTE CONTROL
1. While engine is running (key in ignition switch), apply the brakes and hold the pedal down.
2. Move gearshift lever to neutral.
3. Apply parking brake.
4. Press button on your remote control.
5. Remove key from ignition (the system keeps the engine running).
6. Exit the vehicle.
7. Using the remote, send the STOP command. The system will stop the engine and parking lights will blink once
to confirm that the sequence is valid (vehicle is ready for a remote start command).
NOTES : If you release the brake pedal and depress it once more during or after the execution of the safety sequence, the
safety sequence will be invalidated and any remote start will be impossible.
If the engine stops when the key is removed from the ignition, the safety sequence is invalid.
Perform a new safety sequence. If problem persists, consult your installer.
PREPARING SYSTEM
When you exit the vehicle, you need to prepare the remote starter for its next use.
• If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, make sure that the remote starter system has detected a
valid safety sequence.
• If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, make sure that the transmission lever is in the "P"
position.
• Set heating/air conditioning controls to desired position (when the remote starter starts your engine, it will also
turn on your climate control system).
• Turn your windshield wipers to the OFF position to avoid strain on the mechanism should a start command be
sent to the vehicle when, for example, heavy snow immobilizes the wipers.
• Make sure that the headlights are turned off.
• Make sure that you do not leave your keys inside the vehicle.

4
THE REMOTE CONTROL
Your remote control works off a small, long-life 12-volt alkaline battery (27A).
The range of your remote control can be affected by a weak battery, interference from nearby metal structures, hydro poles,
or crowded parking lots.
With its electronic CODE LEARNING feature, up to four remote controls can be programmed for your vehicle.
We strongly recommend that you keep a replacement battery in your glove compartment.
See your dealer for replacement batteries or additional remote controls.
USING YOUR REMOTE CONTROL
To ensure that commands are transmitted properly, press desired button
for 2 seconds. A command will not be executed if you do not press
button long enough.
Indicator light will flash while transmitting the command.
Your system can be configured (during installation) in such a way that
the remote control will only access the starting function of your vehicle or
it can access both the starting and door locking functions of the vehicle.
You can replace the buttons (rubber keypad) of your remote control by
an alternate keypad (ask your dealer).
The keypad shows pictograms to help you remember the commands;
use the keypad that corresponds to your system options.
Remote(s) included in kit may differ from the ones illustrated.
TABLE OF COMMANDS
COMMANDS BUTTONS CONFIRMATION
SELECTED OPTION ⇒OPTION 1 OPTION 2 LIGHTS HORN
STOP 1
START / CONTINUOUS MODE 1 1 
ACTIVATE / DEACTIVATE SENTINEL MODE 4 / 2 / 3 
TRUNK 3
UNLOCK 2
LOCK 1 1 
THIS CONFIRMATION IS SENT ONLY WHEN ENGINE IS ALREADY RUNNING UNDER REMOTE CONTROL.
4 = ACTIVATION / 2 = DEACTIVATION / 3 = SYSTEM NOT READY
PROGRAMMABLE DURING INSTALLATION – 2ND LOCK
Note : Make sure that the remote control is covered with the appropriate keypad, i.e. pictograms that correspond with the
command options programmed to your system (See “ Using your remote control”).
Option 1 Option 2

5
CONFIRMATION
In all cases, your remote starter will confirm that a command has been received properly by flashing parking lights.
The horn provides certain confirmations when connected to system (requires optional wiring and material). In this manual,
confirmation signals are written in an abbreviated form; for example: (lights: 2) means that parking lights will flash twice.
Confirmations are explained in more detail under each command.
START COMMANDS
START
To start the engine, press button (lights: 1).
The system automatically adjusts ignition duration for your type of vehicle; parking lights flash once then stay on all the time
engine is running.
If more than one command is emitted, each successive start command resets runtime to the beginning, parking lights flash
once to confirm command has been received and horn sounds once if wired to system.
IF ENGINE FAILS TO START
If your system cannot start the engine at first attempt, it will wait for a few seconds and then try again. It could try again twice
depending on reason for failure to start.
After three attempts, it will shut down automatically and wait for a new command.
UPON ENTERING YOUR VEHICLE...
Automatic transmission vehicle Manual transmission vehicle
 To avoid turning the engine off when taking
place behind the steering wheel, do not apply
the brakes until you have placed the key in the
ignition and turned it to the RUN position.
 To avoid turning the engine off when taking place behind
the steering wheel, do not apply the brakes and do not
remove the parking brake until you have placed the key in
the ignition and turned it to the RUN position.
DO NOT TURN IGNITION KEY TO START POSITION.
 Drive off as usual.
ENGINE RUNTIME
Your engine will stop automatically after a preset time of 2 min. , 4 min. , 8 min. or 18 min. depending on
settings during installation. Runtime doubles for diesel engine vehicles.
Parking lights will stay on as long as engine is running.
TRIGGER INPUT
Your remote starter is equipped with a negative trigger (pulse) input.
This input can be connected to another remote control device or to an Astroflex RTS-2 timer
output (optional). Part No. 310-903-502.
If this input is connected, consult this device's manual or ask your technician which
command controls the Start/Stop function.
The Start/Stop commands received on this input are ignored while the engine is running on a
remote start.
All Start/Stop functions controlled by this input behave in the same way as functions
controlled by remote.

6
CONTINUOUS MODE
The “Continuous Mode“ function allows to remove the key from the ignition while leaving the engine running. This convenient
feature allows you to leave the vehicle for short periods of time while the climate controls remain on.
AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
VEHICLES
To access Continuous Mode, press the button while engine is idling.
Parking lights, engine and preset accessories will remain on for the duration of the programmed
runtime.
MANUAL
TRANSMISSION
VEHICLES
To access Continuous Mode, press the button before removing the key from ignition when
performing the safety sequence described on page 3.
Note: Do not send the STOP command if you perform sequence activated by the remote control
(Step 7).
Remove key, exit vehicle and lock doors. All safety devices will remain active.
If you return to your vehicle before runtime has elapsed, just turn the key to the RUN position and depress brake pedal.
WHAT STOPS THE ENGINE
For your safety, engine will not start or will stop if:
 ignition switch is in the RUN position (prevents starting);
 remote control sends a Stop message;
 hood is open;
 brakes are applied;
 engine is over-revving (programmable Enable/Disable at time of installation);
 main switch is OFF;
 safety sequence not valid (parking brake not applied, opening of door detected while remote starter was not keeping
engine running).
MAIN SWITCH
The main switch is usually mounted under the dashboard. It is a toggle ON/OFF
switch that is used to cancel start functions.
It does not disable other commands which remain active (lock/unlock commands,
etc.).
STOP
When engine is kept running by Remote Starter, you can stop it by pressing,
Option 1 •button (lights: 1).
Option 2 •and simultaneously (lights: 1).
Engine and parking lights will shut down.

7
LOW TEMPERATURE MODE
In Low Temperature (Sentinel) mode, system starts your engine
automatically when temperature falls below a preset level
(programmable during installation), see table. Factory default setting is
shaded.
Engine will run for programmed runtime, after which system will wait 2½
hours and then start engine again if temperature is still below preset level.
Factory default setting is shaded.
To activate/deactivate Low Temperature mode,
Option 1 •press the button.
Option 2 •press and buttons simultaneously.
When mode is activated:
Parking lights will flash 4 times, then, if temperature is below preset level, engine will start.
If temperature is above preset level, system waits until it goes below preset level before starting.
In the case of a manual transmission vehicle, the system must have detected a valid security sequence to allow the
activation of Low Temperature mode. (see “Safety sequence for manual transmission vehicles” on page 3).
If system cannot execute command (for example, hood is open), confirmation will be different (lights: 3).
When mode is deactivated:
Parking lights will flash twice to confirm that mode is deactivated. Applying brakes also deactivates Low Temperature mode.
LOCK/UNLOCK COMMANDS
(Option 2 only)
If your vehicle is equipped with electric door locks, several functions can be operated by remote control.
These features are optional and may require purchasing additional equipment. Consult your dealer for advice.
Following systems can be controlled:
• Door locks.
• Trunk or hatchback release.
• Interior lights.
LOCK
Press the button, doors are locked and parking light flashes once to confirm command has been received.
Parking light confirmation is sent as many times as command is repeated so you are sure that system has received the
command. Horn sounds once if option "Confirmation on 2nd lock" was set during installation.
Threshold temperature is set for 
-5 °C ( 23 °F) -20 °C ( -7 °F)
-15 °C ( 5 °F) -30 °C ( -22 °F)
Engine runtime (Low temp mode) is set to 
2 minutes 8 minutes
4 minutes 18 minutes

8
UNLOCK
Press the button; doors are unlocked and parking light flashes twice to confirm command has been received.
The “Unlock“ function can be programmed and connected in such a way that the first Unlock command only unlocks the
driver's door, while a following Unlock command unlocks the other door(s).
Dome light will turn on for 30 seconds every time (optional connection during installation).
• Unlock command is sent.
• Engine is stopped (ignition switch).
• Continuous mode is activated.
This 30-second duration is cancelled when Lock command or Trunk command is sent, brakes are applied or key is inserted
in ignition and turned to RUN position.
TRUNK RELEASE
Press the and buttons simultaneously (lights: 3). Trunk is released and parking lights flash three times to confirm
command has been received.
The trunk cannot be released if ignition key is in RUN position. In this case, parking lights flash once to confirm that
command has been received but trunk could not be released.
If you are not sure you have received confirmation, repeat command. System will repeat confirmation as often as you wish.
If your vehicle is equipped with a factory installed security system and that this system is neutralized by the trunk release
command, remember to rearm it after trunk is closed ("Lock" command).
AUTOMATIC LOCK/UNLOCK
Programmable as Active or Inactive during installation.
This function locks the doors when ignition key is in RUN position, engine is running and brakes are applied. Doors are
unlocked when key is turned from RUN to OFF or when Continuous Mode is activated.
If “Unlock“ function is set to unlock only driver's door on the first command, the “Automatic Unlock“ function will unlock
driver's door only. If dome light is connected to system, it is activated when an automatic unlock occurs.
This function is : Active Inactive .
ANTITHEFT (CIRCUIT DISABLER)
(Option 2 only )
Programmable as Active or Inactive during installation.
Your Remote Starter is equipped with an antitheft system. This system, when enabled, consists of an output that controls a
relay that cuts all circuits required to operate your vehicle (optional connection).
There are two types of antitheft systems.
“PASSIVE ARMING" TYPE ANTITHEFT
This type of Antitheft system arms automatically when ignition key is turned from RUN to OFF and remains OFF for one
minute. It can also be armed manually by sending a “Lock” command (unless ignition key is in RUN position).
DISARMING
Antitheft system is disarmed for one minute when you send “Unlock” command.
If the ignition key is not turned to RUN position within one minute, system automatically rearms, thus preventing any intruder
from starting your vehicle, even with the key in the ignition switch.
“ACTIVE" TYPE ANTITHEFT
This type of Antitheft system arms by sending the “Lock” command (unless ignition key is in RUN position) and disarms by
sending the "Unlock" command.

9
CODE LEARNING OF ADDITIONAL TRANSMITTER(S)
Four different remote controls can be programmed for a given vehicle. If a fifth remote is added, the first remote is deleted.
Note: When the first code learning command is sent, all the old codes are cleared out. Therefore if you want to add a new
remote, all the old ones must be reprogrammed as well.
One or more remote transmitters can be added. To do this, programming is accessed as follows:
 Open hood
 Insert key in the ignition and turn to the RUN position
 Apply the brakes once
 You now have 10 seconds to turn the key from RUN to the STOP position 3 times.
 If this sequence is correctly carried out, the control module flashes parking lights (4 flashes). You may then
proceed to the next step.
 Press any button on the new remote control. When access code of new remote control is memorized, the
control module will confirm with flashing parking lights (1 flash).
 Repeat the above procedures for each remote control that has to be programmed (up to 4 remotes).
 Apply the brakes.
New remote(s) is (are) now added to the system.
SAFETY CHECKS
In order to maintain a high safety standard, proceed with the following checks every month.
HOOD SWITCH
• Remote start your vehicle.
• Open hood.
Engine should stop as soon as hood is opened.
If engine does not stop immediately, turn main switch to OFF position and leave it off until situation is rectified. Contact
your service center.
GEARSHIFT CHECK APPLICABLE TO AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION VEHICLES
If key must be in ignition for gearshift to be moved out of P, your vehicle is safe as long as keys are kept away from children.
If, on the other hand, gearshift can be put in gear without the key being in the ignition, proceed with this simple check.
• Put gearshift in gear (D).
• Remain in the vehicle and be ready to apply brakes.
• Start vehicle with remote starter.
• Repeat these steps with gearshift in every position other than Park and Neutral.
If starter reacts within 90 seconds (which would be abnormal), turn main switch to OFF position and leave it off until
situation is rectified. Contact your service center.
• With gearshift in P, start vehicle with remote starter.
• Remain in vehicle and be ready to apply brakes.
• Without applying brakes, move gearshift out of P.
If, without applying brakes, engine does not stop immediately (which would be abnormal), turn main switch to OFF position
and leave it off until situation is rectified. Contact your service center.

10
GEARSHIFT CHECK APPLICABLE TO MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES
Make sure the parking brake is operational, i.e. it has the capability of immobilizing the vehicle.
If the parking brake cannot stop the wheels from turning, which is not safe, place the main switch in "OFF" position until the
situation is rectified.
DETECTION OF PARKING BRAKE STATUS
1. Carry out the safety sequence, then remote start the engine to confirm the safety sequence is valid.
Make sure not to apply the brakes.
2. Release the parking brake.
The engine must stop immediately upon releasing the parking brake. If the engine does not stop, which is not safe, place the
main switch in "OFF" position until the situation is rectified. Consult your service center.
DETECTION OF DOOR OPENING
Make sure that the opening of each door (open one by one) will break safety sequence.
1. Carry out the safety sequence, then remote start the engine to confirm the safety sequence is valid.
2. Stop the engine using the remote control. Make sure you do not apply the brakes and that the parking brake
remains applied until step 4.
3. Open then close only one door once the engine has stopped.
4. Try to start the engine using the remote control.
The engine should not be able to be remote started.
Repeat this test for every door of the vehicle (including hatchback if applicable).
If the vehicle is equipped with fold-down rear seat backrests, the trunk has to be considered as a door since it is an opening
that can give access to the passenger compartment. It must therefore be included in the safety sequence.
If the engine starts, which is not safe, place the main switch in "OFF" position until the situation is rectified.Consult your
service center.
REPLACING OR BOOSTING VEHICLE BATTERY
If you have to replace or boost your battery for any reason, turn main switch to OFF position and leave it OFF until battery
is replaced or fully charged.
REVERSING POLARITY WHEN BOOSTING YOUR BATTERY
COULD PERMANENTLY DAMAGE YOUR REMOTE STARTER.